The world of youth baseball bats is full of choices. With so many different types of bats available, it can be hard to know which one is best for your kid. Two of the most common types of bats are BBCOR and USSSA bats. But what is the difference between them? This article will explain the key differences between BBCOR and USSSA bats, so you can make the best choice for your baseball-playing youngster.
What is BBCOR?
BBCOR stands for “Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution”. It is a performance standard developed by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) that applies to all non-wood bats used in college and high school baseball. BBCOR bats are designed to perform similarly to wood bats, so that the game of baseball is not drastically altered by the use of metal or composite bats.
BBCOR bats are generally heavier and more balanced than USSSA bats. This makes them ideal for contact hitters, who rely on bat speed and power to drive the ball. They are also less likely to cause excessive “trampoline effect”, which occurs when the ball rebounds off the bat at a faster velocity than it was hit.
What is USSSA?
USSSA stands for “United States Specialty Sports Association”. It is the governing body for youth baseball in the United States, and it sets the standards for youth baseball bats. USSSA bats are designed to be lighter and more flexible than BBCOR bats. This makes them ideal for power hitters, who rely on bat speed to drive the ball.
USSSA bats are also more likely to cause the “trampoline effect”, since they are designed to be more responsive to the ball. However, this does not necessarily mean that USSSA bats are “hotter” than BBCOR bats, as some people might think.
Key Differences Between BBCOR and USSSA Bats
While both BBCOR and USSSA bats are designed to help players hit the ball further, there are several key differences between the two. Here are the main differences between BBCOR and USSSA bats:
Weight: BBCOR bats are generally heavier and more balanced than USSSA bats. This makes them ideal for contact hitters, while USSSA bats are better suited for power hitters.
Flexibility: BBCOR bats are stiffer and less flexible than USSSA bats. This makes them better for making contact with the ball, while USSSA bats are better for driving the ball.
Trampoline Effect: BBCOR bats are less likely to cause the “trampoline effect”, since they are designed to perform similarly to wood bats. On the other hand, USSSA bats are more likely to cause the trampoline effect since they are designed to be more responsive to the ball.
Durability: BBCOR bats are generally more durable than USSSA bats, since they are made of heavier materials. This makes them better suited for long-term use.
Which is Better: BBCOR or USSSA?
The answer to this question depends on the type of hitter that your child is. If your child is a contact hitter, then a BBCOR bat is the best choice. If your child is a power hitter, then a USSSA bat is the best choice.
It is also important to consider the age of your child, as well as the league that they are playing in. Some leagues (such as Little League) require the use of BBCOR bats, while other leagues (such as USSSA) allow the use of either BBCOR or USSSA bats.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bat for your child can be a difficult decision, but understanding the differences between BBCOR and USSSA bats can make it easier. BBCOR bats are heavier and more balanced, making them ideal for contact hitters. USSSA bats are lighter and more flexible, making them better for power hitters. Ultimately, the best choice for your child will depend on their playing style, age, and the league that they are playing in.